Are We On The Air?©

On the thrilling season finale of "Are We On The Air?©," Shawn delves deep into the burning questions that have kept listeners on the edge of their seats. Amidst tackling these queries, the discussion evolves into a lively exploration of what truly defines a stellar QVC/HSN host, while shining a spotlight on the pivotal role of the producer. This episode marks the grand culmination of season three...

Being a show host on QVC or HSN might seem glamorous—just a few hours on-air, then off to relax, right? Not quite! On this podcast, we peel back the curtain to reveal everything viewers don't see. It's these behind-the-scenes moments that determine who thrives and who falters in the business. Later, we'll play a clip from HSN showing how the price game is making a dramatic comeback. And stick arou...

If you've ever watched a TV shopping network and suddenly your favorite host has vanished. It can leave you wondering what happened and no explanation is usually given. In this episode, we look at the hows and whys of show hosts disappearing from your favorite networks. Video of Mary Beth Roe announcing her retirement from QVC

Step into the intriguing world of retail drama with our podcast as we kick off with the jaw-dropping antics of a QVC host, rumored to have uttered something utterly absurd. But that's just the tip of the iceberg! Next, we whisk you through the bustling corridors of ShopHQ, catching you up on all the latest buzz, before delving into the sales saga of ShopLC. But wait, there's more! Brace yourself a...

Step into the captivating world of retail dynamics as we dive headfirst into the latest buzz swirling around QVC/HSN, revealing the intriguing results stemming from its parent company, Qurate. But hold onto your seats, folks, because this isn't just your average rundown – it's a rollercoaster ride of analysis that'll leave you on the edge of your seat, eagerly anticipating what comes next. And wha...

Once upon a time, there were daring networks that boldly proclaimed, "We've got this!" Armed with ambition and determination, they ventured into the ever-evolving landscape of television commerce. Yet, despite their valiant efforts, their journeys ultimately led them to fade into the abyss of oblivion. Some bid farewell with a resounding fanfare, while others silently slipped away, leaving behind...

Step into the mesmerizing world of salesmanship as we embark on a thrilling exploration of the greatest pitchmasters to ever grace the stage. Breaking barriers and defying stereotypes, these titans of persuasion transcended gender norms, leaving an indelible mark on the fabric of advertising history. From the bustling boardwalks of Atlantic City to the bright lights of the big screen, these master...

This show is all about the "Are We On The Air?" YouTube page, and some new content which is now there.  The page now features more clips from obscure shopping networks.  Ever hear of STN Shop Television Network?  How about USA Direct?  

Step into the captivating world where the time-honored traditions of Infomercial and TV Shopping networks echo the charismatic pitchmen of Atlantic City's bustling boardwalks in the glamorous 1940s. Unveil the secrets behind the enduring allure of phrases like "but wait, there's more!" and the tantalizing dance of price drops, as we delve into the artistry of persuasion on this gripping episode. W...

Embark on a journey through the riveting highs, heart-wrenching lows, and cinematic "creations" (????)  birthed by the powerhouse trio of QVC, HSN, and ShopHQ in the exhilarating year of 2023. From dazzling successes to humbling setbacks, we dissect the strategies that soared and those that stumbled. As the curtain rises on 2024, what lies on the horizon for this dynamic industry? Join us as we pe...

It's the late 1980s and the attitude is "TV shopping is easy to do", so everyone does it.  What happens when the "Playboy Channel" cable network decides to try a tv shopping show?  I think you know the answer...

The show begins with a tribute to the recent passing of one of the industry pioneers, then the conversation turns to a stream of consciousness chat about what happened to ValueVision/ShopNBC/ShopHQ/EvineLive/Evine/ShopHQ which caused the bankruptcy of its parent company, iMedia.  

This show is dedicated to addressing the comments left, and questions asked about the TV shopping industry on social media, after episodes of this podcast.  From drinking wine, to shipping costs, to the dress codes, many different topics are touched on.  Then a look at the new shopping app Sune, which might be doing it right, before closing with two quick stories Shawn has from ShopNBC.  First he...

A busy show today as a series of podcasts about TV shopping and the law begins, QVC/HSN results, ShopHQ stock, and the death of the professional broadcaster in TV shopping and on television in general.  

Could this really be it?  The press release and CEO call regarding the iMedia results for fiscal year 2022?  

It's the big day, when iMedia FINALLY announces their 2022 sales.  Are you a betting person? 

Jailed infomercial star Kevin Trudeau is out of jail, but managing to stay in the news.  On this episode of "Are We On The Air" the present and future plans of Mr. Trudeau are examined.  Then a presently popular infomercial is in the spotlight, and on the radar of at lest one Attorney General.  Did I mention I've fallen and I can't get up? 

It's the second attempt at the numbers coming out for iMedia, the parent company of ShopHQ.  Plus before it was ShopHQ/Evine/Evine Live/ShopHQ/ShopNBC it was ValueVision, and it's time for a look back at how it all started, on the TV station which launched "Mystery Science Theatre".  Shawn will play some audio from ValueVision which hasn't been played publicly since it first aired, and a look at h...

ShopHQ was scheduled to release their yearly numbers on March 22, so the show begins with a discussion of that.  Following that is a look at why taking on-air phone calls can be a terrible idea, and when a show concept goes wrong.  The remainder of the show looks at how marketing can affect a brands image, as several podcast listeners have asked about what is going on with how Invicta is presentin...

Continuing the conversation about the bad news at QVC/HSN and what can be done, if anything, to right the ship.  Son of QVC founder Joseph Segel, Marvin Segel, joins the show.  

Nothing but bad news for TV shopping networks QVC and HSN, as they close their fiscal year.  Special guest Marvin Segel, son of QVC founder Joseph Segel, joins the show to unpack the disappointing sales numbers, and discuss the sad layoffs of 400 employees.     Joan Rivers salutes Joseph Segel   The Wellness Kitchenista

In the 1980s, television experienced a renewed interest in "Bingo" because of the direct-response connections.  Once Home Shopping Club (later known as HSN) took off, it was almost inevitable that someone merged the two ideas together, in this pre-QVC world.  For three months in late 1986, "Money Mania" was broadcast into 40 million homes.  What went wrong with an idea which looked amazing on pape...

The planned show, what some shopping networks are doing right, will begin after a very deep dive into what's going on with Qurate stock, the owner of QVC and HSN.  Plus, what might be a contender for worst holiday commercial of all-time.  The show closes with a sad farewell to a small business who tried very hard to make a go of it on Facebook Live.  

QVC is getting into making movies, could this be a mistake?  Plus a listen to a QVC host selling an iPad after telling you not to buy one before.  The ShopHQ numbers are out and they finally tell us where Shaq is.  All wrapped around a theme of Christmas and Santa is waiting for you to call him.  

This show is an entertaining jumble of what hosts of tv shopping networks should and shouldn't do, hosts leaving the industry, where some of your favorite hosts are going, a look at a small network out of Georgia doing big things, all bookended by children's TV shows.   We On The Air Podcast facebook page